Sasso Garibaldi

The beautiful park at Bagni di Bormio is secluded, quiet and somewhat mysterious, an oasis of peace and tranquility just a stone's throw from Bormio. Several well-beaten trails testament that this area is often frequented by wild animals, and nestled within the beautiful larch, fir and mountain pine forest lies a huge boulder called Sasso Garibaldi. Story goes that from its summit General Giuseppe Garibaldi led the assault onto Bagni Vecchi which, in 1859, was occupied by the Habsburgs. Ever since the late '70's the "sasso" has been a popular with climbers and now on its higher and more accessible face the local Alta Valtellina mountain guides have bolted some easy climbs which enable everyone to enjoy this enchanting corner of the Italian Alps.

GETTING THERE

From Bormio drive to Bagni Nuovi and park after the hairpin bend opposite the Hotel Bagni Nuovo. From here ascend the forest road to Bagni Vecchi. The boulder appears on the right after 3 hairpin bends (10 minutes). Alternatively, from Bagni Vecchi descend the forest track to reach the boulder (10 minutes). Or, from the car park at Pravasivo on the Stelvio road walk down the road for 50m and take the path which leads into the forest. After 100m this reaches a small path which leads to Bagni Vecchi. Take this for a few hundred metres then ascend rightwards to reach the boulder (10 minutes).

THE CLIMBING

The bolts distance between the bolt is very small so as to help beginner gain experience leading. The routes are ideal for children and beginners, while the other sides of the boulder are ideal for bouldering.